A novel reduced order model technology framework to support the estimation of the energy savings in building retrofits

Energy Performance Contracting (EPC), as a tool to enhance energy efficiency of buildings, can accelerate investment in cost-effective energy conservation measures (ECMs) for existing buildings. However, there are many risks and barriers that can slow down the uptake of EPC, such as the complexity of the process or uncertainty of building performance post-retrofit. The International Performance Measurement and Verification Protocol (IPMVP), which was originally developed to help increase investment in energy and water efficiency, demand management and renewable energy projects, has the potential to reduce some of the EPC barriers. However, due to limited and uncertain information about existing buildings, the application of this Measurement and Verification (M&V) protocol in retrofitting projects is often complex and requires novel use of building simulation tools. In order to address the challenges of utilising M&V IPMVP in building retrofitting projects, and to enhance the uptake of EPC, the research presented here developed a novel Reduced Order Model (ROM) technology framework that can be used for (i) systematic quantification of energy savings (avoided energy consumption) achieved through ECMs, and (ii) direct estimation of energy savings through the investigation of different envelope retrofit scenarios. The framework was demonstrated on pilot buildings in Sant Cugat, Spain. Raw data available for download here